Peace Corps to Allow Gay Couples to Serve Together

Those looking to embark on a volunteering journey around the world can now do so -- with their partners alongside.

While the Defense of Marriage Act still defines marriage as the union between a man and a woman for federal purposes, the Peace Corps announced it would extend benefits to gay couples to allow them to serve as volunteers together overseas, according to NBC News.

The Peace Corps, a government-run volunteering program started by President Kennedy, will open up the application process for gay couples on June 3.

"Service in the Peace Corps is a life-defining leadership experience for Americans who want to make a difference around the world," said Peace Corps Deputy Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet. "I am proud that the agency is taking this important step forward to allow same-sex domestic partners to serve overseas together."

Gay couples do not have to be married to apply to serve together. However, they will be required to sign an affidavit as evidence of their domestic partnership.

Since its establishment in 1961, more than 210,000 Americans in 71 countries have volunteered for the Peace Corps.

Comments

jimbodapimp, 2013-05-23 01:22:32

Fuck that bullshit! Oh now we can volunteer?! Fuck you str8 assholes!

, 2013-05-23 09:21:05

This criticism of the Peace Corps is way off base. This is a forward thinking group that has taken a stand for the right thing long before most other government agencies. I am tired of waiting for equality too and I am engaged in activism, but lashing out helps no one.

The cost to taxpayers for a House Republican decision to fund the legal team supporting DOMA has climbed from $500,000 to as much as $3 million, Democrats say in questioning the GOP stance on the gay marriage issue now before the Supreme Court.